MARKS and Spencer has been given the green light to carry out transformation work ahead of the opening of its Stockton Heath store.

Four planning applications have been approved by the development management committee, meaning the store remains on track to open before the end of the year.

The documents passed include details over the installation of plants, a replacement trolley bay, consent to display four halo-illuminated advertisement signs and alterations to the front of the shop.

Changes to the shopfront will see existing doors replaced, as well as the removal of roller shutters.

Customers will also get the chance to walk through a new set of automatic doors.

Traders have highlighted concerns over the potential impact on their businesses once M&S arrives but the store insists it is keen to work with those in the area.